The Women's Research Institute promotes the scholarly study of women’s unique patterns of development, their perspectives and contributions, and their involvement in families, religions, and societies throughout the world, with particular emphasis on identifying circumstances and relationships that improve women’s opportunities for peace, progression, and prosperity.

The Women’s Research Institute accomplishes its mission by conducting programmatic research, supporting relevant research by faculty and students throughout the university, developing courses and the minor in Women’s Studies, and engaging faculty and student scholars in academic dialogue on women and gender.